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Natural Sweet Wines vs Fortified Wines: The Differences Explained
Wine lovers are well aware of the diversity of the wine world, where each category of wine brings its own unique characteristics and flavors. Among these categories, naturally sweet wines and fortified wines are distinguished by their specific characteristics and distinct production processes.
Origins and History of Naturally Sweet Wines and Fortified Wines
Naturally Sweet Wines
THE natural sweet wines (VDN) are a French specialty, mainly produced in the southern France , particularly in the regions of Languedoc-Roussillon and the Rhône Valley. Their history dates back to the 13th century, when the process of mutage was discovered by the monk and alchemist Arnaud de Villeneuve. This process involves adding alcohol to the fermenting must to stop the process and retain some of the grapes' natural sugar, thus creating a sweet wine .
Fortified Wines
THE Fortified wines , on the other hand, have a broader history that spans several countries. Some of the most famous are Port and Madeira from Portugal, Sherry from Spain, and Marsala from Italy. These wines also come from a fortification process, but they can vary greatly in style and taste depending on their region of origin and the specific methods employed.
Wine Production Methods
The production of natural sweet wines involves several key stages. The grapes, generally varieties such as Muscat and the Grenache , are harvested at peak ripeness to maximize their sugar content. After harvest, the grapes are pressed and the juice begins to ferment naturally. Fermentation is then stopped by the addition of wine brandy , which retains some of the grapes' residual sugar and gives the wine its characteristic sweetness. The wines are then aged in vats or barrels, often for several months or even years, before being bottled.
Fortified Wines
The production of fortified wines follows a similar process but with significant variations depending on the type of wine. For example, for Port, the grape must partially ferments before the aguardente (a type of brandy) is added to stop fermentation and preserve the sugar. Madeira wines undergo a unique heat-aging process, which gives them great longevity and a distinct flavor profile. Sherries are classified according to their style after fermentation, and some undergo aging under a veil of yeast (flor), which influences their flavor and texture.
Taste Profiles
Naturally Sweet Wines
VDNs are known for their candy elegant and their wealth aromatic. The Muscat , for example, offers intense aromas of tropical fruits, flowers, and honey, while Grenache can add notes of red fruits and chocolate. On the palate, VDNs are often smooth with a nice acidity that balances their sweetness. They pair well with desserts, blue cheeses, or can be enjoyed on their own as an aperitif.
Fortified Wines
The taste profiles of fortified wines vary enormously. Portos can be sweet and fruity, with aromas of dark berries, plums and chocolate, or drier and more complex in styles Tawny , with notes of nuts, caramel and figs. Sherry, on the other hand, can range from very dry (Fino, Manzanilla) to very sweet (Pedro Ximénez), each offering a range of aromas from almonds and citrus to raisins and caramel. Madeira , with styles ranging from dry to sweet, features flavors of dried fruit, caramel, and spices, and can age for decades without losing quality.
How to taste wines?
Naturally Sweet Wines
VDNs are often used to accompany desserts such as fruit tarts, crème brûlées or chocolate cakes. Their natural sweetness and balanced acidity also make them an excellent choice for blue cheeses or blue-veined. In addition, they can be enjoyed on their own as aperitif , offering a rich and complex taste experience.
Fortified Wines
Fortified wines are incredibly versatile . Port is a classic companion to chocolate desserts, nut tarts, and blue cheeses. Dry Sherries, such as Fino and Manzanilla, pair well with tapas, seafood, and olives, while Sherries Sweet wines pair perfectly with desserts and creamy cheeses. Madeira, thanks to its diversity of styles, can be served with dishes ranging from entries to desserts , offering unique and memorable food and wine pairings.
Learn more:
- Ode to sweet wines
- From grape to bottle: the process of creating sweet wine
- Do you know about sweet wines?
Discover the best Gérard Bertrand wines:
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